Ward, Kessler: respectful & ready

By Robert Hough

Their fight is 11 days away, but super middleweights Andre Ward and Mikkel Kessler are ready to get after it in 11 hours. Kessler (42-1, 32 KOs) and Ward (20-0, 13 KOs), the last pairing in the first round of Showtime’s Super Six World Boxing Classic, were polite, respectful and full-go serious Tuesday in a teleconference to discuss their November 21 fight in Oakland, Calif., for Kessler’s WBA title. Kessler, who left his native Denmark for California in late October, told his challenger that he’s accustomed to the time difference, training goes well and he’s dialed in. “I’m enjoying myself over here,” said Kessler, who’s in Sacramento, about 80 miles from Oakland. “I’m having a good time and I feel comfortable. I’m ready to fight you, Ward, and I hope you’re ready.” Ward, who lives in the Oakland area, spoke with an edge in his voice throughout the teleconference. “I’m not having a good time and I’m not comfortable,” he responded. “I’m ready to fight.”